Lane splitting—riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow or stopped traffic—remains a controversial topic among riders. Some riders argue it improves traffic flow and safety. However, Florida law is clear: lane splitting is illegal. Crashing while lane splitting can lead to serious consequences. They may impact not just your health, but also your entire injury claim.
At Dennis Hernandez Injury Attorneys, we’ve handled many complex motorcycle cases where lane splitting was involved. Whether you need a motorcycle wreck attorney, bike accident lawyer, or a top-rated motorcycle crash attorney, our team is ready to defend your rights and help you understand how lane splitting may affect your case.
What Does Florida Law Say About Lane Splitting?
Under Florida Statute § 316.209, lane splitting is explicitly prohibited. Riders must stay in a single lane and cannot pass between vehicles in neighboring lanes, even in heavy traffic. However, riding two abreast in the same lane is legal, as long as both motorcyclists agree.
Because the law is unambiguous, people may view a motorcyclist who crashes while lane splitting as having violated traffic rules. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’re at fault — but it does complicate your case.
How Lane Splitting Affects Motorcycle Injury Claims
Florida follows a comparative negligence system, which means your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially responsible for the crash. Insurance companies often use lane splitting as an excuse to blame the rider, even when another driver clearly acted negligently.
That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced motorcycle injury lawyer or personal injury attorney lawyer who understands how to challenge those arguments. At Dennis Hernandez Injury Attorneys, we present the full context of the accident, highlight the other party’s negligence, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
What If You Were Lane Splitting and Got Hit?
Even if you were lane splitting, it doesn’t automatically mean you’re responsible for the crash. Other factors still matter — such as:
- Was the driver distracted, speeding, or under the influence?
- Did they change lanes without signaling or checking blind spots?
- Were there any road hazards or vehicle defects involved?
Our legal team works with crash reconstruction experts and investigators to uncover every fact. We build every case on solid evidence (not assumptions), and fight to ensure fair treatment, no matter how the crash happened.
For more details on lane splitting laws and safety, review this summary from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
When to Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you crashed while lane splitting—or if you’re unsure how it might affect your case—reach out right away. The sooner you speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer, the better positioned you’ll be to protect your rights and secure full compensation.
We’ve helped riders injured in collisions with cars, commercial trucks, and even while maneuvering through traffic in high-congestion areas. Whether you’re looking for a personal injury law attorney, a Tampa auto accident lawyer, or a personal accident lawyer near me, we’re here to fight for you.
Additional Legal Resources for Florida Motorcyclists
- Is Florida a No-Fault State for Motorcycles?
- Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Florida
- How Motorcycle Accidents Are Investigated
- Understanding Comparative Negligence in Injury Cases
Final Thoughts
Lane splitting is illegal in Florida. However, you may still have a valid case if you suffer injuries while doing it. Every crash is unique, and the details matter. At Dennis Hernandez Injury Attorneys, we’ve successfully defended riders and helped them recover compensation even when insurance companies tried to use lane splitting against them.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, don’t wait. Contact our team of experienced motorcycle injury lawyers, personal accident attorneys, and car accident lawyers near you at (855) 529-3366. We’re ready to fight — and we fight to get you paid!
